Often, when families reach out to me for help, they are at their very end. Meaning, they have tried everything they could think of and yet have not been able to convince their loved one to accept help for their addiction. The family is exhausted and feeling utterly hopeless. Sometimes, they decide to go through an intervention process as a “last ditch effort”. The “final box” to check off in order to be able to say, “We’ve tried everything. This is it.”  

Recently, I worked with one such family. I was hired by the eldest of two sons, both of whom are in their mid to late twenties. Their mother had been drinking alcoholically for many years and they were going to make one final attempt to help her. For the purposes of this writing, I will call her Abby.

Throughout the years, there had been many ugly scenes in Abby’s house. There were arguments and hurtful things said. There were falls resulting in broken bones, and other health challenges due to the drinking. The family was on the verge of collapse. Her husband had filed for divorce, which pained him greatly because he still loves his wife very much.

The four of us got to work and prepared carefully for the intervention. With my help, and support they did a great job in getting ready. We set a date and time and met with Abby.

Abby reluctantly participated in the conversation. With my help she was able to listen to her family. Her son’s and her husband were able to express their love and concern, and how her alcoholism was affecting them. They expressed how they wanted to see her happy and healthy and how they needed change. By the end of our meeting, we were able to help Abby see the reality of her life. We were able to overcome her denial. We convinced her to accept help for her drinking. 

That was four months ago and I’m happy to say that Abby is still sober. She is actively engaged in her program of recovery. Her husband has put the divorce on hold. Her sons are happy to have their mom back. They all have some work cut out for them but there is a new found peace in their home.

I believe Abby accepted the fact that she has a real problem. I believe she is committed to recovering. I can see it in her eyes and hear it when she speaks. I believe that this family is on the road to recovery!

Love and light to you all!